Introduction to the Spring Pole Lathe

This class runs Friday-Sunday, April 4–6, 10 am–5 pm each day.

Well before the industrial period brought us mechanized power lathes, a foot powered lathe was an important tool for making round and hollow objects such as bowls, cups, plates, and furniture or farm tool parts. These wooden objects ranged from simple and easily replaceable to finely crafted, treasured works of art. Join bowl turner David Susag for a three-day introduction to the foot-powered spring pole lathe with an emphasis on creating Nordic-style bowls common from the Viking period through industrialization. Students will work through the process of preparing bowl blanks, hollowing, and shaping bowls while learning about the mechanics and designs of this simple but effective tool.

Prerequisites:

• Physical ability: Foot-powered lathe turning requires coordination, balance, and physical exertion. This class requires physical strength and stamina, as well as the ability to balance on one leg for extended periods of time.
• Skill level: While no previous turning experience is necessary, students are encouraged to have previous experience working with green wood, such as a spoon or bowl carving class.
• Ages: Suitable for ages 18+.

Tools and Materials:

A $50 materials fee is payable to the instructor in class for materials. Students should bring their own safety glasses and are encouraged to bring their own carving axes.